THE CORE PROGRAM
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov) recommends Tai Chi for Health; Arthritis/Fall Prevention (TCFP) program as a proactive activity to prevent falls because of medical evidence and its established training methods. The program is identified by the Administration on Aging as a highly effective program for health. The Arthritis Foundation and other organizations endorse or deliver this program to the community.

WHY TAI CHI
It is an enjoyable exercise proven to prevent falls, and the same time, improves almost all aspects of health.
1. The Healthy Body
Studies have shown tai chi improves muscle strength, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness and balance.
2. The Healthy Mind
It is equally important to have a healthy mind as well as a healthy body. Older adults who are more confident in their balance have less chance of falling! Tai Chi, a mind/body exercise, brings serenity and confidence.
3. The Scientific Evidence
The Gillespie review analyzed 111 scientific papers and found tai chi to be one of the most effective exercises to prevent falls for older adults. The world largest fall prevention study “Central Sydney Tai Chi Trial” has shown the TCFP program effective at preventing falls.

OBJECTIVES
1. To devise a pilot program to establish regular access to Tai Chi for Health classes for employees, their family, local community.
2. To describe strategies and tactics contributing to successful, self-sustaining community-based Tai Chi for Health program, including Continuing Education Credit for Health Professionals.
3. Discuss how to establish community partnerships for increased access to Tai Chi for Health locally.

SELECTED OUTCOMES
1. TCHI provides classes, instructor training, educational materials including books, instructional DVDs, charts and on-going support. In the United States, there are 26 Master Trainers and more than 50 Senior Trainers to certify instructors, with over 7,000 trained instructors. Millions of people have learned the program since 2001.
2. The Arthritis Foundation provides information about the program and has engaged more than 70,000 participants.
3. The State of Hawaii, Department of Health and TCHI increased the visibility of the risk of falls and supports TCFP throughout the state.
4. Most of the Australian State Health Departments fund and provide community-based TCFP programs throughout the country over the last 14 years.
5. The New Zealand national government body ACC has from 2003 to 2010, delivered the program to over 35,000 participants and over trained more than 700 instructors.
6. The Consortium for Older Adult Wellness includes TCFP in their physical activity program.

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESSTCHI is dedicated to empowering people to improve their health and wellbeing. Regular activity is essential for good health. The Tai Chi for Health programs are easy-to-learn, safe, effective, and enjoyable. These programs improve muscular strength, flexibility and fitness, as well as having additional effects including relaxation, balance, posture, and immunity. TCFP is the core of all TCHI programs, offering a progression according to each participant’s goals and interests.

“Time spent practicing Tai Chi makes your time at work more focused and creative, helps you manage stress, makes your interactions with coworkers more efficient, and gives you the energy to work longer, more productive hours…Employers all across the nation are recognizing just how important a heathy workplace and a healthy workforce are improving productivity as well as to controlling health-care costs… wellness programs have achieved a rate of return on investment that ranges from $3 to $15 for each dollar invested, with savings realized within 12 to 18 months.”